How to Clip Your Dog’s Nails

April 7, 2017 / wdpusr / 0 Comments

When a dog’s nails are allowed to grow too long, they can make walking difficult and even split painfully. For most dog owners, it’s easiest to clip their pooch’s nails at home! Learn how below from a Lafayette, LA veterinarian.

The Set Up

Gather your supplies and your dog in a well-lit room. You’ll need a pair of nail clippers made just for dogs, a styptic powder or pen to staunch any bleeding, and a few dog treats.

Clipping

When your dog is calm, take one paw in your hand and gently snip the tip of the first claw. You’re only trying to blunt it—if you clip too far, you’ll cause bleeding from the vein that runs into each nail. This is where your styptic powder or pen will be helpful.

Repeat and Reward

Go around to each nail on each paw, clipping the tips gently, until all of your pooch’s nails are done. Be sure to reward Fido with a treat after each paw has been completed; this way, he’ll associate nail-clipping with good things!